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Project Noah Nature School
Prionoplus reticularis (male)
Cerambycid measuring around 4.5cm in length. Brown colour with pale net-like lines on elytra; dense yellowish 'fur' on and around thorax. Considering the legth of the antennae, reaching past the elytra, this might be a male; the famale's only reach about half way down the wing cases. It is the largest endemic beetle in New Zealand. The adults only live for about 2 weeks, as they are unable to feed.
Found among grasses near house, probably attracted to lights (they are nocturnal) and stayed there after sunrise. The place is bordered by forest. This species can be found throughout New Zealand, with adults emerging from November to March.
The grubs are edible and were a food source for the Maori.
Spotted on Feb 1, 2011
Submitted on Jul 4, 2017
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